Kari'S Karamels
Kari's Karamels are rich, buttery caramel sweets with a deep, sweet flavor and smooth texture, perfect for satisfying candy cravings or gifting during special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy 3-quart saucepan.
- Add sugar and salt. Stir thoroughly.
- Stir in corn syrup.
- Mix well.
- Gradually add condensed milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook and stir over medium heat to firm ball stage (245°F).
- Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.
- Pour into a 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Cool and cut into squares; wrap in wax paper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding other ingredients. If you prefer a less sweet caramel, consider reducing the brown sugar slightly. You can also substitute light corn syrup with maple syrup for a unique flavor twist. Using a candy thermometer is crucial to achieve the firm ball stage accurately. If you're looking for more sweet treats, browse more American recipes for ideas.
Serving Suggestions
These rich caramels are perfect on their own or can be paired with a variety of desserts. Try serving them alongside hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful treat. They also make great additions to gift baskets or dessert platters, especially when paired with Grandma Grimes' Sugar Cookies for a sweet variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cut caramel squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To keep them from sticking together, layer parchment paper between the squares. If you want to enjoy them warm, reheat in the microwave for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt them completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kari'S Karamels contains roughly 196 calories, with 1g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 12g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsweetened condensed milk instead of sweetened?
No, using unsweetened condensed milk will significantly alter the sweetness and texture of the caramels. Sweetened condensed milk is essential for achieving the proper flavor and creaminess in the finished product.
What should I do if my caramels are too soft?
If your caramels are too soft, they likely didn't reach the firm ball stage of 245°F. You can reheat the mixture slowly over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches the desired temperature. Be careful not to overcook to avoid burning.
Can I add nuts or other flavors to the caramels?
Absolutely! You can fold in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, right before pouring the mixture into the pan. For additional flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top or mixing in extracts like almond or hazelnut.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).